Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman has confirmed Frenkie de Jong’s expected return for the upcoming Nations League match against Hungary. De Jong, who has not played for the national team in over a year due to a persistent ankle injury, was recalled last week. However, he briefly raised concerns when he left Barcelona’s recent game against Real Sociedad due to a shin issue. Koeman reassured fans that this injury was unrelated to his ankle, stating, “He will be there on Tuesday, and we assume that he can play on Saturday.”
De Jong last appeared for the Netherlands 14 months ago in a European Championship qualifier against Ireland. Although he has not yet played a full match since his recovery, Koeman remains confident in his importance to the squad, citing the team’s “luxurious” midfield options, which include Tijjani Reijnders, Ryan Gravenberch, and Teun Koopmeiners.
Meanwhile, Memphis Depay, who recently signed with Corinthians in Brazil, will not join the squad for this round. Although Depay has been making progress, Koeman believes he is not yet fit enough to play. The coach hinted that Depay could rejoin the national team by March if he continues improving, emphasizing, “Memphis is getting fitter… I will decide the moment when he returns.”
The Netherlands will host Hungary in Amsterdam on Saturday as it seeks to secure its position in the Nations League.
